Do you need to send your car to your new city? Maybe you'd prefer to fly to your location and ship your car there later.
Using a trusted car shipping company can make this easier and ensure your car reaches your new place safely. This guide explains the steps for shipping your car from one location to another.
Choosing a Car Shipping Provider
Selecting the right car shipping company is crucial. Here are a few reputable car shipping providers that you can consider:
Montway Auto Transport: Known for its nationwide coverage and transparent pricing, Montway offers both open and enclosed transport options.
AmeriFreight: With positive customer reviews, AmeriFreight provides various shipping methods and often offers discounts for military personnel, students, and more.
uShip: uShip connects you with a network of carriers, allowing you to compare quotes from different providers and choose the one that suits your needs.
Ship a Car Direct: This company is praised for its "Damage Free Guarantee" and offers a comprehensive approach to shipping your vehicle securely.
Getting a Quote
Request quotes from multiple car shipping providers to understand the cost implications. Quotes typically depend on factors like distance, vehicle size, shipping method (open vs. enclosed transport), and the desired delivery timeframe. Obtain detailed quotes in writing and ensure they include all potential fees.
Preparing Your Vehicle
Before handing your vehicle over to the car shipping provider, undertake some necessary steps:
Clean and Inspect: Thoroughly clean your vehicle and conduct a detailed inspection. Document existing damage, take photos, and note any mechanical issues.
Remove Personal Items: Remove all personal belongings from the car to prevent damage and loss during transport. Carriers typically have restrictions on personal items in the vehicle.
Maintenance Check: Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. Check tire pressure and address any leaks or mechanical problems.
Disable Alarms: Deactivate car alarms to prevent unnecessary activation during transport.
Fuel Level: Maintain a low fuel level (typically around a quarter of a tank) to reduce vehicle weight during transport.
Booking the Transport
Once you've chosen a provider and received a satisfactory quote, book your transport. Confirm the pickup and delivery dates, as well as any specific instructions for the process. Provide accurate contact information for both you and the destination contact.
Insurance Coverage
Reputable car shipping companies provide insurance coverage for the vehicles they transport. Verify the coverage details and understand the process for filing a claim in case of any unforeseen damages during transit.
Drop-off and Pick-up Locations
Coordinate the exact drop-off and pick-up locations with the shipping provider. Depending on accessibility, the provider may need to meet you in a nearby location if the destination is inaccessible by large carriers.
Vehicle Inspection Upon Delivery
Upon delivery, carefully inspect your vehicle again. Compare its condition to the documentation you made prior to shipping. If you notice any damage that occurred during transport, document it with photographs and inform the shipping company immediately.